剑拔弩张
剑拔弩张 (jiàn bá nǔ zhāng) literally means “swords drawn, crossbows loaded” and expresses “tense confrontation”. This idiom is used when describing situations involving life philosophy.
Also searched as: jian ba nu zhang, jian ba nu zhang,剑拔弩张 meaning, 剑拔弩张 in english
Tense confrontation
Pronunciation: jiàn bá nǔ zhāng Literal meaning: Swords drawn, crossbows loaded
Origin & Usage
The idiom 剑拔弩张 (jiàn bá nǔ zhāng) is commonly used in classical Chinese to describe a tense and confrontational situation. Originally, it referred to the vigorous and forceful style of calligraphy, as noted by the Southern Liang dynasty scholar Yuan Ang, who compared the calligraphy of Wei Dan to the awe-inspiring presence of a dragon and tiger, with swords drawn (剑拔) and crossbows loaded (弩张). Over time, the idiom evolved to metaphorically depict scenarios where tensions are high and conflict seems imminent. In modern usage, it vividly illustrates situations of impending confrontation, whether in personal disputes, diplomatic negotiations, or literary expressions.
Examples
English: "Tensions were high as both sides prepared for a confrontation."
Chinese: 双方都准备好迎接对抗，气氛紧张。
Related Chinese Idioms
Similar idioms about life philosophy
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 剑拔弩张 mean in English?
剑拔弩张 (jiàn bá nǔ zhāng) literally translates to “Swords drawn, crossbows loaded” and is used to express “Tense confrontation”. This Chinese idiom belongs to the Life Philosophy category.
When is 剑拔弩张 used?
Situation: Tensions were high as both sides prepared for a confrontation.
What is the pinyin for 剑拔弩张?
The pinyin pronunciation for 剑拔弩张 is “jiàn bá nǔ zhāng”.